Blue skies are symbolic. They signal times of joy, optimism and laughter in the warmth of summer.
For many of us, blue skies bring a sense of renewal and the space to dream. As the cooler days melt away, we are revitalised and ready to paint on a fresh canvas.
This season we chose to create our own blue sky. A balmy, soft blue, washed with crisp white clouds. The Kiwi summer we all yearn for, painted on a gigantic canvas. A world of our own to explore, with no limitations.
This season marks a fresh start for us, a subtle but conscious shift in design; Preserving and perfecting what we are known for, yet embracing the possibilities of the parts of our canvas that have not yet been painted.
Welcome to our Blue Sky Project.
With love,
Nicole x
]]>This season I was intent on celebrating the art of what we do. After all, we don’t just design beautiful shoes. We embody confidence and self-expression, rouse inspiration, create support both literally and figuratively and we do it every day.
The bottom line is: shoes aren’t just shoes. They become part of the fabric of our lives, weaved intricately into the way we take on and speak to the world every day. And our everyday is important because, well, it’s EVERY DAY.
When designing this collection, I was inspired by the beauty and delight that shoes bring to our everyday. I found myself constantly asking “how do we make our everyday just that little bit better?”. What makes our everyday just that little bit better is, of course, different for everyone and different every day. Some days we long for comfort and support, others we need hype and confidence, and sometimes we just need good old fashion practicality.
With this mind, I thought about my own every day. I realised that as I walk my path, I have two trusted and loyal companions at my feet at almost all times. My shoes and my dog.
Shoes & dogs. What a combination. Two of my favourite things. They have more in common than you think. Just as the shoes on your feet have become part of your everyday, our furry friends have cemented themselves into all aspects of our lives. They bring us endless joy, make us laugh, comfort us when we’re sad. They are there for us through it all. An enduring love story, a timeless bond. Quite simply, they make our everyday just that little bit better.
Life is a complex jigsaw puzzle. There is no one thing that makes it ‘complete’, it is a complex combination of little things that come together and multiply into a beautiful masterpiece. Shoes and dogs are some of those things. It is my absolute pleasure to capture two of these irreplaceable life treasures together in harmony in this editorial style campaign of art.
Join us this season as our loveable pack of friends help introduce my latest pieces.
With love & dedication,
Nicole Rebstock x
——
In loving dedication to Beau, may your days be filled with as much love and sunshine as you have filled mine.
There are two important facets to colour psychology: the hue and the tone. Cool hues, such as blue and green, are often seen as calming colours and tend to ground people. Warm colours, such as yellow and orange, can make us feel powerful and improve the mood of ourselves and others around us. Yellows and oranges tend to give off happy and energetic vibes while green and blue help to surround people with a sense of peace. The tone of the colour refers to the brightness of the colour. Brighter colours look bolder and can boost the energy of the environment. Muted colours tend to bring a sense of peace and harmony.
When looking at the colours in your wardrobe, think about what the day will bring you. Do you have an important meeting and would like an energy boost? Bright and warm colours will help. Try seeing if you have a yellow or orange shirt. If you are starting something new and feeling nervous then muted and cool colours are your friend. A green jacket or navy shoes will help to calm your nerves. Even if you generally wear neutral colours, you can still take advantage of the psychology of colour by incorporating a pop of colour into your outfit. Accessories like silk scarves or bags are a great way to get this pop of colour while still having a more neutral look overall.
We are coming into summer now and with the warmer weather styles tend to become brighter and more energetic. Cool blues are a fantastic colour to pair with the bright pinks and whites that everywhere at the moment. Personally, I love the new Blaize sneakers in powder blue as they work in harmony with the bright colours to give off a summery vibe without overwhelming the outfit.
]]>"I moved down to Christchurch from Auckland at the beginning of March 2020. The move was not entirely voluntary as I had planned on moving to Europe after finishing my undergraduate degree. However, my timing could not have been worse for overseas travel and as I had sold everything I owned, I moved to into my sister’s spare room which happened to be in Christchurch. Two and a half years on from that move, I would like to share with you some of the reasons that I fell in love with my accidental home.
Christchurch isn’t known as the garden city for no reason. The number of parks and public gardens scattered around the city is amazing. This was a definite life-saver when I went from a student flat to living with a 6-month old and a two-year old at a time when all the playgrounds were closed. Being able to wander through Abberley Park to look at the flowers or watch the birds is a real privilege.
It wasn’t until the country started to open up again that I could truly appreciate the massive transformation that Christchurch City has undergone. I had last visited the city when the RE-Start container mall was still the shopping centre so the difference in the city centre was quite startling to me. When completing the rebuild, it is clear that the designers were not looking to simply replace what was there but to enhance the city and create something really special. As I am from Auckland, my first stop was at Riverside market. I love the farmers market feel to Riverside. From the collective-style grocery stores to the amazing selection of restaurants, the only issue with Riverside is that I can’t sample everything in one visit.
From Riverside, it is a short stroll to paradise for someone who packed their life into one suitcase in anticipation of moving to Europe. Down the pedestrian Cashel Street, you’ll find Ballantynes department store and then across the road is The Crossing. I loved the container mall and I think that The Crossing has incorporated the spirit of revival with them. The Crossing is home to many of my favourite shops including A&C homeware, Perriam, and of course Nicole Rebstock. The laneways filled with boutiques makes it unlike any indoor mall. Here you actually can see the sunshine and get fresh air while you shop.
For drinks at the end of the day, I could wander back towards Riverside which does have many wonderful bars, but I prefer to continue up High Street to Cascade Bar and Courtyard. The courtyard is lit up with string lights and the live music on Fridays is the perfect way to end the week. To top it all off, Cascade offers delicious custom cocktails alongside craft beer and wine. My personal favourite is the Cascade Quencher as it tastes like springtime. However, if you are wanting something a bit different, Beehave is a must try.
I wasn’t expecting to live in Christchurch. The pandemic changed my life, as it did for many people, but I am so lucky to have had the chance to fall in love with this wonderful city. It is amazing to watch it, not just rebuilding, but completely redeveloping. And now, I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. Who needs Europe?"
]]>Chocolate Beer Cake
Ingredients:
Cake -
Frosting -
Method:
Recipe courtesy: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/chocolate-beer-cake-3568444
]]>We can’t blame the novelty of it, how can someone resist indulging in a dessert that combines the rich goodness of chocolate and the luxurious feel of gold? We certainly can’t! That’s why we are going to share a NR team favourite recipe:
Salted caramel tart with edible gold flakes
Ingredients
Ganache filling
Toppings
Instructions
To make the ganache
Final steps
Recipe courtesy of https://www.amytreasure.com/salted-caramel-tart/
]]>The make-up of NR jewellery:
Our silver jewellery is made of 925 sterling silver.
Adored for its durability, strength and smooth metal surface, 925 sterling silver radiates a familiar yet glamorous shine.
Our gold jewellery is 14k gold PVD plated on 925 sterling silver.
PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) is a vacuum coating process that uses titanium nitride to produce a brilliant finish. This provides a coating on the jewellery that is more durable, thicker and more resistant to the corrosion of natural elements (eg. sweat and chlorinated water) than regular gold plating.
A PVD coating is 10x thicker than normal gold plating.
How to clean your NR jewellery:
For surface-level cleaning, utilise a soft lint-free cloth such as a cotton cloth to wipe the jewellery. Materials with rougher textures such as paper towels or tissue paper will cause minute scratches upon the surface and dull the pieces’ shine.
For a deeper clean, it is recommended that you bring your jewellery pieces to a professional jeweller for a thorough clean. They will have the appropriate cleaning solvents and methods to ensure there will be no disruptions to the condition of the jewellery.
Storage and handling tips:
To preserve the shiny appearance of your jewellery, we recommend storing your jewellery pieces in the designated NR velvet pouch. Practising good storing habits will help in avoiding scratches on the surface of the jewellery.
Avoid wearing your jewellery while participating in physical activities such as sporting or gym activities. Remove jewellery when showering or swimming. This is because the chemicals in our sweat and water can cause the jewellery to tarnish.
Avoid contact with moisturisers/body creams and perfume. This is to avoid jeopardising the integrity of the jewellery material and dulling its shine.
]]>
Welcome to the new era of Nicole Rebstock.
]]>Read Volume 1 here.
Pegasus Takes London (90x90cm)
The Pegasus Takes London scarf tells a chic graphic narrative with a mellow palette of blues and touches of red that bring the motif to life.
Style this scarf: Our Pegasus takes London scarf acts as the ideal shawl for your next outfit. The 90x90cm scarf is big enough to provide coverage while simultaneously adding an element of stylised texture. If you have a dress that needs a light layer on top, drape this scarf around your shoulders and tie a knot or secure it with our Trifecta scarf ring to hold your scarf in place all day long. It is the ultimate embodiment of European fashion with a metallic touch contrasting the soft texture of mulberry silk. Whichever way you choose to wear our Pegasus takes London scarf, the classic colours of navy, deep tan and cream are suitable colours to compliment the tones in this scarf. You can even choose to match your nails or lipstick to the sections of red in the scarf for a cohesive and elegant look.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest & Nicole Rebstock
Style this with shoes: If you’re building a look with classic shades like black, navy or beige, consider adding a pop of colour to your feet. You don’t have to find a colour that is the same as the ones in the scarf, as long you choose a colour that falls within the same tonal palette of the shade you’re trying to match it with. Taking our beautiful AW22 season shade - emerald as an example, even though it may not be a colour that is present in the scarf, it still compliments the lighter blues of the scarf and creates a harmonious look.
Style it with a belt: Our twisted Twine buckle detail will play its role to accentuate your silhouette. Whether you wear it around the waistband of your trousers or your hips when you wear a dress to create shape, the smooth surface of the belt will complement the scarf. Along with the buckle’s elegant gold finish, the scarf and the belt will become key features of your look.
Tangerine Desert (65x65cm)
Tangerine Desert is a bronzed desert scene that features an array of warm orange shades to brighten your capsule of outfits. Never go unnoticed with this soft but striking scarf that will work well with outfits that are formed of neutral tones or contrasting colours.
Style this scarf: Our Tangerine Desert scarves act as the perfect hair or clothing accessory. Add a pop of colour through your hair by wearing it as a loose head scarf to channel your inner Marilyn. You can also thread the scarf through your hair bun or ponytail and allow it to hang loosely for a soft flair. Another way you can style this scarf is by wrapping the scarf around your wrist as a scarf bracelet for a different form of contrast against your skin. Silk scarves can also replace traditional belts. Tie the scarf around your waist or thread it through the belt loops of your pants for a relaxed yet polished look. No matter how you wear the scarf, try pairing these colours with soft neutrals like tan, charcoal or cream for a subtle yet thought-out silhouette. Alternatively, you can use this scarf as a bright contrast with darker shades such as deep browns, khaki or burgundy for the ultimate eye-catching edit.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest
Style it with shoes: As mentioned above, soft neutrals are the perfect pairing for this colour-rich scarf. Although white is often chosen when matching it with something colourful, it can sometimes create too stark of a contrast. That is why many people opt for a shade that provides a flush of colour like blush to provide a seamless finish to their outfit. If you’re looking to create a smart casual look with the scarf, consider adorning some sneakers like Mandy in blush pebble leather. With delicate gold embellishments, our Mandy sneakers will work well to complement the scarf’s bronze palette without overwhelming the overall look.
Home Decor: If wearing silk scarves isn’t a part of your styling taste, you may opt to frame these striking prints and hang them as interior works of art on your walls. When exploring frame options, consider neutral frame colours. Framing a silk scarf creates the perfect centrepiece in a room as the silky fabric radiates a strong wash of colour that will bring your living spaces to life. This will maximise the visual impact of the scarf’s prints and colours. Position the work of art away from a window that streams direct light to ensure the longevity of the colours in the scarf.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest
]]>Welcome to the new era of Nicole Rebstock.
]]>Coco The Rhino (65x65cm)
As one of the smaller-size scarves in our range, Coco The Rhino is the ideal starting point for individuals who want to add this chic accessory to their wardrobe. The colour scheme of this scarf is a neutral palette that can complement your basic shades of tan, cream and navy.
Style this scarf: If you’re looking to wear this scarf as part of your outfit (eg: around your neck), try building an outfit that starts with a soft neutral top as this will bring out the range of colours in the scarf. Complete the foundation of your outfit by pairing the top with a rich-coloured bottom to bring a balanced silhouette back to the outfit. If you want to style the scarf with a dress or skirt, choose a light-coloured piece and have dark-coloured outerwear layered on each other for a relaxed model-off-duty look. You may also switch the overall shade orientation by having a dark-coloured top with some light-colour bottoms.
Style this with shoes: Incorporating different textures will help to create an interesting contrast within the outfit. The richness of the suede will help enhance the silky texture of the scarf by creating a visual contrast of textures. To form the perfect monochromatic look, try adhering to the colour palette of the scarf by finishing your look with coco or black footwear such as our Aria loafers. For a taste of elevated sophistication, consider wearing our Nemesis 78mm pumps to match the border of the scarf if you’re looking to create a detailed contrast.
Style this with jewellery: Jewellery is something you can experiment with when wearing scarves as some styles of jewellery work better with certain patterns and colours of scarves. With Coco The Rhino scarf, adopting some diamond or solid studs are the safest and most compatible earring choices. An example of these types of styles are our Miss Marion or Molten studs. They will work to complement the scarf's design and colours without disrupting the outfit's aesthetic balance.
A World of Wonder (90x90cm)
Our A World of Wonder scarf features an ornamented border that frames an eclectic flora and fauna print filled with warm earthy shades. This scarf is a beautiful statement piece that will add flair to one’s winter wardrobe. The colours of the print may seem intimidating, however, it carries a tremendous sense of elegance and wearability that can easily take your look from day to night.
Style this scarf: Since this scarf is soft and flowy, we would style an outfit that juxtaposes the scarf's visual feel by building a structured look. A tailored blazer and trouser combo is the ultimate structured look for this scarf. Wear this scarf around your neck or draped across your body and layer it under or over a blazer to create smart layers for your outfit. Pairing a tailored look with A World of Wonder scarf adds the perfect touch of feminine styling to balance out a strong and tailored look. A clothing ensemble with solid colours will be ideal to allow the scarf to shine. Alternatively, you may apply the same layering principles with a winter coat instead of a blazer for your casual winter outfits.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest
Style this with shoes: Structured silhouettes pair perfectly with a classic court shoe. Preferably a pair of stiletto shoes that bring a feminine touch without the visual bulk. While our signature Nemesis pumps are the obvious styling choice in this outfit scenario, our faithful slingback Aly would also work to form a fully cohesive look. Sling-backs are a great piece to adopt when you’re wanting something delicate yet poised. Presenting itself in a black or sand suede, Aly’s shades will work well to compliment the bright range of colours in the scarf.
Style this with a bag: A simple way of adding this scarf as an accessory to your look is to pick a bag that matches a colour in the pattern to create a cohesive look. However, to add a more dramatic twist, you can style a bag that will make a visual contrast with the colours in the print. A black bag like our Olivia structured tote can be the perfect canvas for the scarf to present itself on. Since the scarf’s dimension is 90x90cm, it is large enough to wrap around the bag's firm handles. This elevates the look of your bag with an added layer of a colourful print to draw the entire outfit together.
Photo courtesy: Nicole Rebstock & Pinterest
]]>
Let’s first ask: What is mulberry silk?
Mulberry silk is harvested from silkworms who feed on mulberry leaves. The silkworm spins silk cocoons and the silk filaments are unwinded and combined to form threads of raw silk. The silk threads are then woven together into a fabric.
Mulberry silk is 100% natural, odourless, and hypoallergenic.
How to clean your NR silk scarves:
The fibres and colours of the silk need to be properly treated and cleaned to avoid damage. Therefore, we recommend dry cleaning your silk scarves and avoiding using home remedies.
Storage and handling tips:
To store silk scarves, gently fold them and place them in a drawer that is clean and dry. Do not hang or clip your scarves as this will cause wrinkles and creases.
Avoid spraying perfume on your neck or directly on the scarves. Alcohol-based products are not silk-friendly and will damage the fibres in your scarves.
Avoid direct sun exposure as this will cause the colours in your scarves to fade.
Ironing your NR silk scarves:
We recommend keeping the ironing of your scarves to a minimum. If you do have to iron them, you will need a gentle hand when handling your silk scarves.
If you’re using a traditional iron, place the iron on a silk setting and mist the scarf with water. The moisture will help prevent any damage. Place the scarf between 2 pieces of un-dyed fabric to avoid direct heat on the scarf. As our scarves have hand-rolled edges, iron along the hem and avoid pressing down on the edges.
Alternatively, you may opt for a steamer to smooth out any wrinkles. Leave your scarves to completely dry and cool before wearing or storing.
We recommend only ironing or steaming the back side (non-shiny) of the scarf. This will maintain the lustre of the scarf and help to avoid scorching.
]]>
Our favourite ways to style Serene:
With the modern day trend of maximalist styling, we opt for something more subtle by matching details through multiple clothing pieces. In this example, we have placed a pair of light washed jeans between a star printed blouse and the gold embroidered stars on Serene. By placing a solid colour piece like a pair of jeans between patterned pieces, it creates a playful look without being overwhelming. This results in a visually thought-out outfit. Any printed blouse with a soft print pattern would work well in coordinating the subtle details. Alternatively, adopt a simple graphic tee and your favourite jeans for a more relaxed look.
Photo courtesy: Soi Paris & Zadig and Voltaire
2. Complimentary tones
If you have the classic colours of navy, cream and black readily available in your wardrobe, Serene would have no problem fitting in. Oat and caramel are considered to be the softer neutrals of black and white. These colours bring a soft touch to your styling. Our favourite way of styling these colours are finding their complimentary colours and incorporating that into an outfit. Taupe is the complimentary shade to caramel as is emerald to the shade of oat. You can adopt these colours to form a fully monochromatic outfit and adding a touch of elegance with Serene. These colour combinations will form a well balanced outfit that will take your personal styling to the next level.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest
3. Style versatility
We’ve covered everything from star studded details and colour tones but what should you wear these shoes with? Quite literally anything! Icons such as Audrey Hepburn often wore low heeled flats with a sleek pair of pants, perfectly finishing an easy-to-wear look. Nowadays, shoes like Serene are readily embraced by anyone who wants to adopt a comfortable but effortless tone. Our favourite pairings are flowy dresses and tailored pieces. A flowy dress is the epitome of comfort styling as it involves one piece of clothing but looks polished. Pairing a shoe like Serene keeps the outfit light and does not take away from the simplicity of the look. On the other end of the spectrum, we can also pair Serene with a pair of tailored trousers to balance out the sophisticated silhouette with a dainty touch.
Photo courtesy: Reformation & Pinterest
Shop Serene in oat and caramel online or in one of our NR stores.
]]>Have you heard the news?
Our much adored Nemesis95 pump now has a little sister: Nemesis78. Pitched at a perfect mid-height of 78mm, with the same sculpted point and modern styled heel as Nemesis95, Nemesis78 carries the same fierce and feminine attitude as her bigger sister, but with a more manageable heel for all day wear.
I think Nemesis95 was an immediate success because not only is the silhouette striking, it is just so comfortable for its height. However, a 95mm heel isn’t for everyone and I really wanted to achieve the same feeling and look in a lower heel so everyone could experience the magic of these heels.
With people slowly moving back into their regular routines, now seemed like the right time to expand the Nemesis family. Many of us haven’t worn heels in a while due to working from home. A lower and comfortable heel is a great place to start if you are heading back to work or even if you have an event and know you’ll be standing all day.
Like her bigger sister, Nemesis78 will form part of my core range and each season will feature a new selection of colours. This season features our top-selling houndstooth print and a deep midnight black suede.
Happy shopping shoe lover!
Nicole x
]]>As lovers of this silky smooth texture, we often use suede for vibrant colours as we feel it gives more depth to colour. You will notice the use of suede the most in our iconic Nemesis pumps, which are in every colour you could imagine! The depth and softness of suede are what many around the world love about the material; it provides comfort and a luxurious look.
There is a common misconception that suede is hard to care for so we are here to set the record straight! In this blog, we have comprised a detailed guide on how to properly care for suede and soon you’ll see it’s not so hard.
Let’s first start by asking: What is suede?
Suede is the inner facing side of an animal hide. It is characterised as softer due to its raised nap texture. The pile of raised nap texture will need brushing and protection from wet weather to keep it in a good condition.
Common tools and methods used to care for suede:
1. Suede/nubuck bristle brush
Owning a suede brush will do wonders in maintaining your suede shoes. There are two sides to a suede bristle brush: a soft silicone side and a stiff brush side.
The stiff brush side is used to brush off any dirt on the surface of your shoes. Be careful not to apply too much pressure while brushing with the stiff side as this could disturb the suede pile.
The soft silicone side is used to brush the pile so that it looks tidy i.e. faces the same direction. Brushing your new suede shoes with the soft side will also help the waterproof spray to apply more evenly.
2. Waterproof spray
Suede is not a big fan of water as it makes the pile prone to breakage and balding. This is why we always recommend avoiding water and any other liquids when wearing suede shoes. Waterproofing spray will help to protect your shoes from any liquid you may come across.
Woly ‘Protectant Spray’ is what we recommend you use. Apply several layers before wear and reapply every few wears to ensure shoes are protected. You are able to buy this at any NR store.
3. Suede shampoo and conditioner
If you want to clean stains off your suede shoes, we recommend getting it done by a professional cobbler and avoiding attempting home remedies. Cobblers have special shampoos they use to restore your suede shoes.
4. Storage
Constant exposure to light can cause the colour in suede shoes to fade. Therefore, it’s best to store suede shoes out of direct light.
Open Window was painted by Henri Matisse, a French artist who worked during the early 20th century. He was well known for being apart of the fauve school, a group of artists who were revolutionary in their use of bold colours and broad brushstrokes.
Matisse's belief was that colour should be used for its expressive qualities. He believed that when certain colours are put together, they react to portray an emotion. Therefore, his paintings often feature bold and contradicting colour combinations.
Open Window is a prime example of his belief. The direction of light in this painting shines through to the right side of the room. Matisse’s placement of emerald green creates shadow from the lack of light on that side of the room. The red window frame is strategically placed next to the emerald green to emphasise the depth of its shadow and draw attention to the other lighter parts of the room. The shades of green leaves surrounding the window compliment the orange boat masts that create a sense of movement, like a small breeze that sweeps through the scene. The unity of the colours on the canvas create a light-filled scene that is vibrant and inviting.
Matisse harnessed the true power of colour by using it as a tool to express his creative vision. Just like many other creatives in fashion and design who express their artistic intention through the use colour, they construct products that are captivating and emotive. The harmony of living colours presented by these creatives bring light into every aspect of our lives. They give us choices on how we want to portray ourselves to the world.
This small but energetic work is celebrated as one of the most important works in art history as it reminds us the power of colour, how it plays a big role in the way we express ourselves and how we understand the world around us.
Photo courtesy: Open Window, Henri Matisse, Oil on canvas, 55cm x 46cm, National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C
Information cited from: https://www.nga.gov/collection/highlights/matisse-open-window-collioure.html
Light Paloma Cocktail with Orange
Instructions:
Recipe courtesy: https://www.cottercrunch.com/light-citrus-paloma-cocktail-with-orange-peel/
]]>We have gathered the ultimate list of high fashion trends along with some fashion tips to help you get excited about your styling this year!
]]>After an unusual year of being cooped up at home, it's time for a slash of colour. From burnt orange and soft lavender to magenta and forest green, using bold colours to colour block creates the statement that 2022 calls for.
Fashion tip: Try sticking to solid colour blocks to create a more cohesive look. Accessorise with a bag or simple jewellery.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest
Bejewelled everything:
Shiny things aren’t just for jewellery anymore. We can see the trend of jewel embellishments being used to elevate an everyday look. These accents draw attention by reflecting light and bringing texture which in turns adds interest to your style.
Fashion tip: For a blinged up outfit for your everyday, adopt some subtle crystal accents like our Gigi trainers to bring a little more luxury to your ordinary look.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest & Nicole Rebstock
Clashing prints
It’s typically not acceptable to wear patterns that would clash together however 2022 has set to rule that out. It's all about mixing patterns and textures together to create an eclectic look. Pair your printed top with your snakeskin skirt to achieve the ultimate trend.
Fashion tip: You can choose one piece of clothing or accessory in your outfit to be a solid colour. This will work to break up your combinations of patterns and make the look less heavy.
Photo courtesy: Vogue Runway
Oversized suits in natural colours
On the other end of the spectrum, we can see that neutral oversized suits are on the rise in the fashion world. This is a simple but flattering choice that will work for the office, lunch with the girls or a night event.
Fashion tip: Footwear is an easy way of dressing up or down an oversized suit style. Pair with a stiletto heel for a fancy look. Alternatively, throw on a pair of slides for a more toned down version of the outfit.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest
Stone coloured trousers
Stone is the shade that has begun to rule the neutrals realm this year, especially in trousers. This shade is the perfect foundation piece as it brings a soft touch to your styling.
Fashion tip: Instead of keeping it safe with neutral pairings, opt for something with a pop of colour like a colourful coat or a printed blouse.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest
Pop of colour gloves
Gloves in general have made a dramatic comeback into the world of fashion. It is an easy way to accessories a plain outfit by bringing an elegant touch. Although gloves have always been seen in neutral colours, 2022 will see the rise of colourful gloves that will bring another playful element to an outfit.
Fashion tip: Opt for sheer gloves to be able to wear them in warmer seasons but still achieve the same dramatic effect.
Photo courtesy: Pinterest & Vogue Runway
]]>Dear shoe lover,
The day has finally come! Aucklanders are free to move throughout New Zealand.
As you know we recently opened a store in the beautiful city of Christchurch at The Crossing.
Dear shoe lover,
The day has finally come! Aucklanders are free to move throughout New Zealand.
As you know we recently opened a store in the beautiful city of Christchurch at The Crossing. If you know me, you’ll know I like to be very hands on with everything we do. I design our stores and like to be there when they are being built and of course for the opening. But Covid had its own plans for us!
Our lovely Christchurch team took the challenge on with a smile on their faces, preparing the store and welcoming our lovely Christchurch customers.
Finally, after 2 months I’m here. I won’t lie, it felt great to escape Auckland. The store is perfection- the team did an incredible job putting it together. I particularly love the mirror stands and semi circle shelving that showcases our latest bag collection. Finished with moss green velvet and grey washed walls, the store captures the luxe feel of the Nicole Rebstock label perfectly.
I’m looking forward to spending more time in the beautiful city of Christchurch. We have a few upcoming VIP events and I can’t wait to celebrate the opening of our store with a proper opening event in the new year! Look out for your invite!
I look forward to meeting you!
Nicole x
Candles are always gifts that are well-received. Medusa Candle Company creates hand poured candles inspired by Greek Mythology. Our personal favourite scent is the ‘Heracles’ candle which features notes of jasmine, bergamot and ylang ylang.
Place your order on Instagram @medusacandlecompany or email medusacandlecompany@gmail.com
2. Cardholder
A cardholder is a compact way to carry all your essentials without the bulk. Designed by New Zealand designer - Nicole Rebstock, the Carol cardholder is available in 4 different colours. This handmade calf leather cardholder features 6 card slots and a zipper component to ensure all items are safely secured.
Available at https://www.nicolerebstock.com/collections/bags
3. Chocolate
Instead of gifting chain bought chocolate, how about supporting your local chocolatiers? Honest Chocolat is a chocolate business run by husband and wife duo - Nico and Emily Bonnaud. Honest Chocolat carries a full range of chocolate flavours and types that will satisfy every taste palette out there.
Available at https://www.honestchocolat.com
4. Fresh Flowers
Gifting flowers is one of the sweetest presents one can receive. The florists at Bourbon Rose are committed to creating beautiful floral arrangements for everyone. They also create fresh Christmas wreaths that are perfect for bringing festive cheer.
Place your order at https://bourbonrose.co.nz
5. Pet accessories
Know someone who is obsessed with their pet? Sunday Paws is a boutique run by an Auckland couple who share their passion for fun pet products. Their online store is stocked with a variety of leashes, accessories and toys that will surely spoil one’s furry friend.
Shop online at https://www.sundaypaws.co.nz
6. Books
These guys are close to our hearts, sitting opposite our first ever store on High Street in Auckland. Unity Books is an independent bookstore that carries every book worth reading. From novels, poetry and children’s books, find the perfect book for your loved one to enjoy this summer.
Available at http://unitybooks.nz
7. Skincare
Switch up their normal skincare products with something that is kinder to the earth! Dust & Glow is a New Zealand brand that produces powder based face and body products. Their products are easy to use and leave skin feeling refreshed!
Shop online at https://www.dustandglow.com
8. Sweet Treats
Celebrate the Christmas season with something delicious! Bluebells Cakery is the one stop shop for all things sweet and they are the BEST. Order their festive boxes or Christmas cupcakes for the sweet tooth in your life, even if it is just for yourself!
Order online at https://bluebellscakery.com
9. Handbag
If you're wanting to spend a little more, there's no denying that handbags are the ultimate gift for a mother, sister, wife or friend. Treat her to Nicole Rebstock's luxe range.
https://www.nicolerebstock.com/collections/bags
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I hope you've been keeping well.
I want to let you in on a little secret...
People always ask me what my favourite style is so I thought I would let you in on the secret.
Nemesis. A timeless piece that so happens to date back to my first collection.
Why? Well, first of all, if you know me, I love classic styling- sleek lines & feminine silhouettes.
Now for a bit of history...
Nemesis was the first shoe I ever designed. The last (shoe mould) took a long time to perfect. It's hard work making a shoe that high, comfortable. Often when you make a new last, the silhouette you desire can be compromised by the comfort level you seek. The exact curvature of the arch and the shape of the toe box are very important for both aesthetic reasons and comfort. In this case, I wasn't prepared to compromise on either.
I went back and forward, deciding what shaped heel I would use, ultimately arriving at the stiletto heel that has won the heart of so many today. A straight, modern stiletto heel, as opposed to a more curved and older fashioned heel.
So why do we love this shoe so much?
It embodies femininity and holds a sense of power for the one wearing it. Put simply, it's the way it makes you feel (and there's no doubt it's a fashion statement too)! For what it is and the height it gives us, it's as comfortable as you could ever wish a stiletto to be and best of all, it will never go out of fashion.
As I like to say, real beauty doesn't date and sometimes less is more.
You can expect Nemesis to be around for years to come
Nemesis comes back each season but with a new colour, texture and finish. I love to use suede for vibrant colours as I feel it does more justice to the colour, giving it depth that a matte leather often cannot produce.
Just like you, I have been collecting the colours since day 1- who knew there were so many shades!
With love,
Nicole x
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